Our story

The Story Behind M&L Pilates

I moved to London at 23 with one clear dream: to be a mother. I had four children in five years, and being their mum was my whole world.

A few years ago, as they grew more independent, I started asking myself: who am I beyond being a mother?

Reformer Pilates, three times a week, had become my hour to switch off and focus on me. At first I thought about becoming an instructor. Soon I was imagining something bigger: a beautiful, warm studio where women could escape everyday life for an hour and feel they belong.

After months of searching, I found the building on Finchley Road. It was full of character and light, and I could see the studio before it existed. Nine months of approvals later, just like a pregnancy, the transformation began.

I named M&L after my daughters, Mia and Leighann, who, with my sons Isaac and JJ, inspired this new chapter.

Every detail is made with care, but what matters most is how you feel when you walk in. A place where the outside world can wait, and an hour that’s entirely yours begins.

Shiran Barashi

Founder, M&L Pilates

Created with love, for women.

M&L Pilates — An Hour That’s Entirely Yours.